The song is usually sung in political rallies, demonstrations and protests. It is also performed as a song or a dance number in Independence Day celebrations, particularly in schools.

“Pilipinas Kong Mahal” is also sung in flag retreats or when the flag is being lowered from its pole.

Tensions between China and the Philippines

Philippines and China are involved in a maritime dispute over the South China Sea including the West Philippine Sea.

China has conducted massive land reclamation activities in the Spratly Islands by turning submerged reefs into artificial islands that can support military bases, airstrips and naval ports.

The International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) has ruled in favor of the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and dismissed China’s nine-dash-line claim that was found to have no basis.

China has refused to participate in the proceedings in the Arbitral Tribunal and has also refused to recognize the ruling.

President Rodrigo Duterte, however, has not insisted on enforcing the ruling and has instead sought to improve relations with the country.

Critics have repeatedly slammed him, saying that he has given up asserting the Philippines’ sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.

The country is also availing loans from China for the government’s infrastructure program despite criticism that the Philippines could fall into a debt trap.